Criminal Court begins closed-door trial in Easha’s qazf case

The Criminal Court has begun the trial of Aishath Easha Ashraf, who has been charged with qazf in connection with a documentary published by Adhadhu. 

The preliminary hearing, held this Monday morning, was conducted behind closed doors. The case is being heard by Judge Ibrahim Zihuny.

Easha, a former political figure, had previously expressed concern that she was not being allowed to fully defend herself during the investigation stage.

Adhadhu CEO Hussain Fiyaz Moosa and Managing Editor Hassan Mohamed have also been charged with qazf over the same documentary. Their trial is likewise being conducted in closed hearings, after both journalists remained silent during questioning to protect their source.

The court has issued a gag order prohibiting the publication or circulation of the documentary. Two Adhadhu journalists have also been jailed on contempt of court charges, with the gag order barring public commentary on the case across all platforms.